Jensen Huang, chief executive and co-founder of Nvidia, is facing increased scrutiny as reports emerge of an alleged relationship with a senior company executive, while a separate investigation continues into his links with Chinese businesswoman Alice Huang.
According to a report cited by ERT, the previously unreported relationship allegedly involved Kimberly Powell, Nvidia's vice-president for healthcare.
Alleged relationship with senior executive
According to the report, five former employees claimed that Huang and Powell had a personal relationship that was discussed within the company.
The report states that Nvidia's code of conduct requires employees to avoid situations that could create conflicts of interest, including personal relationships. The company also says it investigates reports of inappropriate conduct.
Huang, 63, and Powell, 48, were reportedly filmed showing affection at a hotel in San Jose, California, during an Nvidia conference in March. According to the report, both are married to other people.
Three people familiar with the incident alleged that a passer-by recorded the encounter on a mobile phone and was later approached by Huang's security team and asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
Powell's role at Nvidia
Powell joined Nvidia in 2008 and oversees initiatives involving the application of the company's chip technology in higher education and healthcare, particularly medical imaging devices.
She was promoted to senior director of artificial intelligence business development in 2016 and became vice-president for healthcare at the end of 2017.
Broader investigation under way
The reports come as Huang is already facing questions over his relationship with Alice Huang, a Chinese businesswoman who US officials have alleged has links to Chinese intelligence services.
China has denied the espionage allegations, while Alice Huang has not publicly responded to requests for comment.
According to the report, Nvidia's board launched an investigation this month after Huang acknowledged the relationship with Alice Huang. The inquiry is being led by law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
The report also said Republican chairs of three major committees in the US House of Representatives have requested a closed-door briefing from Huang concerning his contacts with the businesswoman.
Company declines comment
When contacted and asked about the alleged relationship with Powell, Huang reportedly replied: "I don't think you should be talking directly to me," before ending the call.
Nvidia declined to comment, while Powell did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
According to the report, Nvidia shares fell about 8% in after-hours trading.
Source: ERT
